Founder Mode (LA Techweek)
You ready LA?
Let’s be real. LA Tech Week is packed with events.
But only few have the energy, the collisions, and the deal flow to actually change your trajectory. That’s Founder Mode.
“Founder Mode” , dubbed by Paul Graham, describes a specific kind of leadership in which a founder has a direct, hands-on approach to their company rather than breaking up and delegating responsibility through a top-down structure. Often cited examples of leaders embodying founder mode include Steve Jobs, Elon Musk and Brian Chesky.
We’re bringing Founder Mode to Lou Lou in Santa Monica during LA Tech Week — sick views, Tulum vibes and it's where you shake a hand and it turns into your next round, client, or co-founder.
Why Founder Mode?
Panels that cut the BS. VCs, operators, and legal experts breaking down scaling, AI, hiring, fundraising (over $200M from one speaker alone) and founder laws to consider. No fluff, just playbooks with tactical takeaways.
Pitching that matters. 5 startups take the mic, pitching live in front of investors who actually write checks.
Networking that slaps. Hip Hop Speed Networking → 7 rounds, 4 minutes each. Structured hip hop chaos that guarantees you meet the right people.
After-hours moves. A private VIP Tulum style dinner where deals get closed and partnerships get inked.
Who’s in the Room?
Early & growth stage founders ready to level up.
Investors + execs hunting for the next big thing.
Operators, lawyers, and service pros who actually get startups.
Kamp events aren’t conferences. They’re accelerants. Past attendees have:
Raised $24M+ in capital
Landed Techstars & major accelerators
Signed clients the same night
Built relationships that keep compounding years later
🎤 Speakers
Delian Asparouhov (Co-founder @ Varda & Partner @ Founders Fund)
Naseem Sayani (Angel Investor and VC)
Anshuman Sinha (General Partner @ SCG Angels)
James Smedley (Fox Rothschild LLP)
Lisa Yu (GP @ 99VC)
Colton Cray (GP @ Litquidity)
VIBES 👇